Said backpack must be large enough to carry a Dell M60 laptop, which is pretty large.

I'd like to get a cycling-oriented backpack, rather than a black, invisible backpack. Desired features:
1. visibility color (yellow, orange)
2. reflective tape
3. loops for red rear blinkies

Any recommendations?

I have an older Deuter backpack that would probably fit that laptop, it's got a builtin
camelbak pouch and a pullout high-viz vest. I was as happy with it as any backpack,
but being in the sweaty straps for a couple of hours a day caused my skin to break out.
So I got panniers that I use instead, and now both my skin and my spine are happy.

(Does it have to be a backpack? If so... wanna buy a used one :-) )

If you don't want panniers, there's another option. I got sick of the backpack after a while and went with the messenger bag. It feels much better with the load riding across my back, rather than the backpack pulling down on it. I think some of the messenger bags are available with padded laptop compartments. It's also easier to look over you shoulder.

I think timbuk2 makes bags that'll fit laptops (I like to call mine "craptop" *it's ancient). They're kinda pricey.

I just bought a bag from ebags.com for $24 (free shipping + $5 off!), and I'm quite pleased with my purchase. I'm not sure if a laptop would fit in it, tho...

happy hunting!

Vaude!

light, waterproof and extremely versatile.

https://www.arcteryx.com/product.aspx?prod=1358

I've got something very similar from Lowe Alpine which, unfortunately, they don't make any more.

right now i use a targus https://www.targus.com/us/product_details.asp?sku=TSB312 and it works great.

however am thinking of switching to messenger bag because of the whole 'easier to look behind' point made above.

plus, maybe i won't carry as much stuff causing my backpack to be so frickin' heavy

p.s. i was always wondering the aerodynamic differences between backpacks, panniers ... i guess drag is drag no matter what ...

Check out www.mec.ca > Packs > Day Packs (Lifestyle) > MEC Megabyte Computer Daypack. $66 CAD

I would take a look at a messenger bag. I recently went to a Bailey Works bag with a padded shoulder strap. Much better arrangement of pockets and it can hold a large dell laptop with ease. But generally when I am commuting with the laptop I will use the panniers (atleast one).

Thanks to all, I decided on a Targus messenger bag, but here's a question:

How do people who use messenger bags keep them from falling off to the side and dangling in front of them? Am I missing something subtle here?

My TimBuk2 has a chest strap that keeps it in place.

If this is the bag you have https://www.targus.com/us/product_details.asp?sku=CBT200 then it is not designed for bicycle riding.

Bicycle messenger bags have a chest strap to hold them in place. I also recommend ones with padding on the shoulder strap.

I also have a Timbuk 2, but had to scavenge the shoulder pad from my old bag.

have to agree - either get a messenger bag with a computer sleeve or get a back pack. DO NOT get a regular shoulder bag unless you've got a rack to bungy it to. Messenger bags have a second strap(or third) to hold them in place on your back.

The best
https://www.pacdesigns.com/oversize.htm

the rest
https://www.chromebags.com/kremlin.php
https://www.timbuk2.com/tb2/catalog/c...?categoryId=45
https://www.manhattanportage.com/cata...products_id=89

Personally I'd go for the original back pack I recommended but if you're set on a shoulder/messenger bag then look at the links above.

I know the decision has already been made... but I LOVE my Deuter backpack! So there's that.

For the few times I go without panniers, like grocery shopping, which is less than 2 miles away, I use something called a "Campus Pack" bought at Cabelas last time I was there. The shoulder straps are wonderfully thick and padded so they don't dig in, have lots of extra length for adjustment to accomodate the bent over position of a drop bar bike, and the sternum strap keeps them stable and pulled in, even for those of us with a large upper body. It has two biggish main compartments, the smaller of which holds my thinkpad comfortably. I prefer it to panniers if carrying a computer, as the computer is better isolated from road shock by being on me rather than the rear rack.

https://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/te...results1.jhtml

Hey, I like the leaping green worm!!! What fun !!!

CB HI, thanks for the suggestion about the chest strap. That's an easy enough retrofit. I can get webbing and buckles at REI for a few bucks, and sew them on myself.

I'm going to be good to go soon!

if your messenger bag anin't got no chest strap; it's crap.... for biking anyway!

a GOOD messenger bag will run you a hundred bucks but it is money well spent for something that will see daily use and last for a long time!

i have been extremely pleased with my crumpler bag but if i ever need another i am gonna shop local and get an RELoad.

I got the Targus bag from Amazon.com for $40, plus shipping. The addition of $3.00 worth of buckles and webbing will add the chest strap... way less than $100.